'Watching Virat, you understand how to control a chase': Jacob Bethell's big words for Kohli IPL 2026

English all-rounder Jacob Bethell is becoming an increasingly vital cog for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing IPL 2026. Bethell was brought in as RCB's opener after Phil Salt's injury.

Now Bethell is making the best of the opportunity and getting to learn the art of chasing from the best in the business, Virat Kohli. He is successfully transitioning from a promising prospect to a core member of the squad.
The Warwickshire youngster talked about the invaluable experience of opening the innings alongside Virat Kohli, noting that the partnership has been a masterclass in the art of chasing down targets. By observing Kohli's approach firsthand, Bethell is quickly learning the tactical nuances required to anchor an innings while keeping the required run rate under control.

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Watching Virat, you understand how to control a chase and stay not out: Jacob Bethell

Beyond the tactical side of the game, Bethell emphasised that sharing a dressing room with world-class teammates has shifted his perspective on the sport's volatility. He credits the RCB environment with teaching him to embrace a high-pressure brand of cricket, encouraging him to play with significantly more aggression and the bravery necessary to succeed at the highest level.

"When I got to RCB, I was curious about the experience. Watching Virat [Kohli], Rajat [Patidar], and speaking to DK [Dinesh Karthik], I realised the game shifts here. It’s played at a high tempo; you have to be aggressive and brave. Watching Virat chase, you understand the art of batting and how to control a chase and stay not out. It’s about shifting gears based on the situation,” Bethell said, as per a release.

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Don’t know how many people in India would be calling me Starboy: Bethell

Beyond his on-field performance, Bethell has been deeply impressed by the unique cricket culture in India. He noted that the sheer volume of information and high-quality coaching available to Indian players from such a young age is remarkable, creating an environment where the sport is understood at a very sophisticated level early on.

Furthermore, the young Englishman expressed a sense of genuine privilege regarding the attention he has received. He remarked that despite having played only a limited number of games in the IPL so far, the immense limelight and support from the fans have been overwhelming.

“People here love talking about cricket. It’s more hands-on, with more information shared. The passion and volume of cricket at a young age is incredible. The limelight is a funny thing; life is still the same, but when people want to watch you play, it’s a privilege. I don’t know how many people in India would be calling me Starboy. It’s pretty incredible,” he concluded.